Dear Esther Review

There was a lot of buzz regarding the game Dear Esther earlier this year and after I received the game as a gift from my bro (thanks bro!), I finally got a chance to see what the fuss was all about.

Plot (3/5)
Interesting story but you have to piece it yourself. It can be very confusing as to what actually happened and whether the game is all a dream or not.

Gameplay (1/5)
I’m sorry but this isn't a game. The only reason I gave it a point is that there is some motivation to explore the island as you learn more about the story that way. Besides exploring for the crumbs of story though, the game is nothing more than a fancy slideshow. Also, exploring the whole island will take only 1-2 hours.

Sound (4/5)
The game has good voice acting and the background noises really immerse you into the environment.

Music (4/5)
Music is minimal but when played it amplifies the feeling of loneliness and despair.

Graphics (4/5)
Graphics uses the Source engine so occasionally when you go up close to items, they look kind of blocky, but the amount of effort into creating the island is nothing short of amazing.

Replay (2/5)
You may be tempted to play the game again to try and figure out what is actually going on with the story and to grab and snippets of information you missed – but besides that, there's no real reason to come back – unless you want to admire the scenery.

Polish (5/5)
I didn't really experience any bugs whatsoever – although considering this isn’t really a game – not surprising.

Score – 5/10

While the island you visit is pretty, you’re mainly just a spectator to the story’s jigsaw puzzle plot.

If you want to get the game, you can get it off Steam.

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